The United States enforces a new 19% tariff on Indonesian imports, causing confusion among business leaders globally as President Trump reshapes the trading system in America’s favor. Tariffs on imports into the U.S. now range from 10% to 50%, with an estimated effective rate exceeding 17%, the highest since 1935.

Major trading partners secure deals for lower tariffs, while others face higher levies in Trump’s trade war. Zurich Insurance and Allianz CEOs express confusion over the tariff situation, emphasizing the need for clarity in business. German consumer goods maker Henkel CEO describes the market environment as very challenging and uncertain.

Worries about trade uncertainty prevail during earnings season, as Maersk CEO highlights the impact of uncertainty on investments and global growth. Maersk, a key player in global trade, stresses the importance of businesses having time to adjust to new trade deals. Siemens CEO welcomes tariff deadline passing, noting limited impact on the business for the current fiscal year.

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1. The Federal Reserve announced that it will gradually raise interest rates starting in March to combat inflation, with a plan to increase rates by a quarter percentage point at each meeting.
2. The Labor Department reported that consumer prices rose by 7.5% in January compared to a year ago, marking the fastest pace of inflation in nearly 40 years.
3. The stock market reacted negatively to the news of rising inflation and interest rates, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling over 300 points in response to the Federal Reserve’s announcement.: Confused and concerned, CEOs on Trump’s new tariff regime